Ruto hails conservancies for preserving wildlife

President William Ruto has praised local conservancies for transforming the lives of rural communities and preserving wildlife.

Speaking during the 20th anniversary of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia County on Saturday, the President said conservancies play a great role in environmental conservation and the growth of tourism.

"This conservancy is home to the largest hub of rhinos, including the only two remaining northern rhinos in the world," he said.

He pointed out that the government will work closely with the conservancy to make sure the two rhinos are preserved.

Noting that 70 per cent of wild animals are accommodated in conservancies, Ruto said the government has resolved to support the habitats.

"I want to commit to Ol Pejeta that you have the support of the government in your conservation efforts as well as empowerment of local communities economically," he said.

At the same time, the President warned that the increasing fragmentation of arable land for settlement was the biggest threat to future of agriculture and wildlife conservation.

The President explained that the government’s Affordable Housing Programme would play a significant role in safeguarding arable land from fragmentation.

He expressed concern that if land fragmentation is not managed, the country will soon run out of the necessary land for food production.

On human-wildlife conflict, Ruto said the government would fence off animal habitats from settlements to bring the menace to an end.

For this to succeed, the President called for cooperation among all stakeholders so that the challenge could be comprehensively addressed.

He pointed out that Kenya offers many premium tourism options, including luxury accommodation and safari.

"We must encourage premium tourists because they offer top dollar," Ruto said.

He commended the management of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy for providing modern breeding technology and vaccination services to the local communities.

He urged the management to partner with the government in next year's nationwide vaccination of livestock that will be carried out across the country.

He noted that Sh1 billion has been set aside for restocking of livestock in 16 counties whose residents lost animals during the recent drought.

"It's now upon leaders and the relevant departments to identify the beneficiaries," the President directed.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy Board Chairman Philip Coulson said they would support the government to meet its global environmental conservation targets.

"We are not only participating in wildlife conservation but also uplifting the lives of local communities through the provision of education, agricultural and health services," he said.

Other leaders present at the event were Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu and MPs Mwangi Kiunjuri (Laikipia East), Sarah Korere (Laikipia North), John Kinyua (Laikipia Senator) and Jane Kagiri (Laikipia Women Rep).